People who have casual sex... how do you approach STD/STI talk?

[Anonymous]

You meet on a night out/dating app/date and this leads to sex. Or you meet up for sex exclusivley. How do you go about talking/finding out about this strangers STI status? Or don't you? I only have sex in secure relationships in the past however, feel like the dating scene is a nightmare for me so tempted for something casual, but I'm a worrier about my health and getting some nasty STI... How do you deal with this issue?

[purplepoppy]

STDs are always going to be a risk but they're not the guaranteed outcome some people claim. Not having sex because you might get an STD is like not going to a supermarket in case you catch covid or going swimming incase you pick up a tummy bug. All human contact carries risk of catching something.

There are some red flags, like a guy who scoffs at wearing a condom or makes excuses. Guys who've slept with hundreds usually pick from bottom of the barrel and people there don't take their sexual health seriously. Avoid guys who aren't too bright and criminals for the same reason. Think of it as eating at a restaurant, there's always a chance of food poisoning but you reduce your chances by not eating at a dirty restaurant.

[Smoke-n-Growls]

Great question! I have no answers, but very much want to see what others say.

My plan is condom, or if they do want raw then we both get STI tests and share them. (If the other person puts up a fuss about it, it's an immediate no go - if someone refuses to be tested but still wants to raw dog, my assumption is they get off on spreading whatever they have).

I haven't done casual sex before, and this concern is one reason why. Would love to see how others solve it.

[Kabluie]

On the last first date i asked if she was safe. Loaded enough word to get a simple answer. I do have my last STI test a month ago on my phone if they really want to see. I do think it's a good idea for anyone to get tested more regularly if you are seeing more partners regularly.

[Fireguy17]

It's best to wrap that rascal.
If you are going to be exclusive then you can figure out options.

[LiamSawyer]

You just wear a condom and give no oral.

[Agape93]

Everyone gets tested before even a kiss on the lips. No exceptions. If you have something, good bye, we're done. If you dont, cool we can continue